Program Manager, Global Trade Compliance

Working at Watlow

Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for nearly a century. Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.

About the Role

Watlow is seeking a Program Manager, Global Trade Compliance as a key leadership role within Watlow’s Global Trade Compliance (GTC) organization, with a mission statement that includes optimization of the GTC function as a change agent.

The Program Manager will drive the design, implementation, and optimization of scalable technology solutions that support our growing GTC organization and business. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader with a deep understanding of global trade operations, system integrations, and project management best practices.

You will serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for compliance-related technology initiatives across regions, with a focus on enabling efficiency, automation, and scalability in a highly dynamic environment.

Your Key Responsibilities

• System Implementation: Lead the global rollout of trade compliance systems (e.g., OCR), including tools for classification, screening, license management, and import/export automation.
• Technical Subject Matter Expert: Act as a key technical resource for system configuration, data integration, and operationalizing compliance requirements.
• Global Collaboration: Partner with regional compliance teams to align global system standards with local needs.
• Training & Enablement: Design and deliver user training programs to support system adoption and compliance readiness.
• Project Ownership: Manage end-to-end implementation projects, including vendor coordination, timeline and resource tracking, testing, and documentation.
• Technology-Driven Solutions: Identify opportunities to automate manual trade compliance processes and integrate AI or chat-based tools for efficiency.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Translate business needs into digital solutions by working with IT, engineering, logistics, legal, and compliance teams.
• Process Optimization & KPIs: Apply continuous improvement methods to scale workflows, reduce errors, and maintain dashboards for key performance tracking.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Business, International Trade, Supply Chain, or a related field
• 7-10 years of experience in global trade compliance with a strong focus on technology and operations
• Deep experience implementing and optimizing compliance systems such as SAP GTS, Oracle GTM, Descartes, Integration Point, Amber Road, or similar platforms
• Strong understanding of cross-border operations, global trade regulations (e.g., EAR, ITAR, Customs, FTA, sanctions), and compliance workflows
• Familiarity with data governance, system architecture, and API integrations
• Hands-on experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies to compliance operations

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s degree or J.D.
• Industry experience in semiconductor, aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, cross-functional projects; PMP certification preferred
• Knowledge of export classification processes, licensing workflows, and customs broker integration
• Experience working with ERP systems, agile teams, and cloud-based platforms
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with a solution-oriented mindset and strategic focus
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence across global and cross-functional teams
• Ability to thrive independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, global environment

Benefits: The Watlow Total Compensation Plan

The health, well-being and financial stability of you and your family is a high priority to us. The Watlow Total Rewards Plan includes competitive compensation and a full range of life and career enhancing benefits:

• Annual Incentive Program
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match on your contribution and an annual company contribution that is tied to company performance
• Wellness incentives
• Employee Personal Assistance Program
• Dental, medical, vision and short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

Diversity & Inclusion

We proactively embrace diversity in all its dimensions across our company and cultivate a culture of inclusion and forward thinking that respects and reflects each team member’s individual strengths, views, and experiences. Watlow takes pride in being an inclusive equal opportunity employer and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Please let us know confidentially if you need or require any special accommodations to participate in our recruiting process by emailing us at accommodations@Watlow.com.